A good way to determine whether a diamond is GIA or IGI is to compare the clarity grades of the two labs. They each assign a different clarity grade, but overall they tend to be very consistent. In 20 of 29 cases, both labs assigned the same clarity grade. IGI was stricter than GIA in 5 cases while GIA was less strict in four cases. As such, the comparison is not biased in favor of either lab.
GIA vs igi diamond grading
A gia vs igi comparison shows a significant difference in prices. IGI diamonds are consistently lower priced than GIA diamonds, as can be seen from the blue dots near the bottom of the price curve. James Allen seems to offer a more limited selection of IGI diamonds in the D-F color range and the SI2 clarity grade. In addition, it seems like James Allen offers a larger selection of IGI diamonds in the G-J color range.
In addition to the price difference, you should consider the consistency of GIA grading. Although GIA certification is more widely accepted in the U.S., IGI certification is more reliable in Europe and Asia. While IGI certification is widely accepted, the quality of diamonds graded by the labs may vary. If you have doubts, ask the salesperson to provide you with a sample GIA certification report to ensure that it matches your expectations.
Full grading reports
GIA diamonds are generally of higher quality, and diamonds graded by this organization tend to sell quickly. IGI, on the other hand, are less stringent and may give you more favorable results. However, both GIA and IGI have a variety of advantages, including full grading reports for any size diamond. And while IGI offers more favorable results, you’ll be left wondering which is better for you.
While the GIA diamond grading certificate is often more reliable, it costs retailers more. Because of this, many retailers will choose IGI when the diamond has been certified by both the GIA and the IGI. However, IGI certificates are still more accurate, and James Allen does sell GIA certified diamonds. AGS is not as prestigious, but it has a stronger reputation.
Characteristics of the diamond
IGI reports include information about the diamond’s faceting and symmetry. They also list any inclusions, and you can check the report online. The GIA diamond grading report will contain information about polish, symmetry, fluorescence, and other characteristics of the diamond. The AGS report will include more detail and will assess the cut quality on a stricter standard. GIA uses optical ray tracing to measure the diamond’s performance in light.
Another gemological institute that is internationally respected is the International Gemological Institute. The GIA was founded in 1931 by Robert Shipley, an American jewelry seller. Shipley realized he knew very little about gemology, and set out to learn everything he could. As a result, he created the Gemological Institute of America. In 1950, IGI began issuing globally recognized diamond certificates.
Different criteria
The GIA vs IGI has a high reputation for accuracy, and the majority of jewelry stores use its grading services. GIA diamonds are typically more expensive than IGI diamonds, since the certification is backed by the GIA. However, other major gem labs are not run by the same standards. Some use less stringent standards and use different criteria, and their acronyms make it difficult to distinguish them from each other.
The GIA is the world’s leading gemological laboratory and has been operating for 85 years. The GIA’s “4Cs” and International Diamond Grading System(tm) were developed at the GIA lab. Currently, more than 1400 scientists and educators are employed by GIA. The GIA certification carries a higher premium, but it is not the only diamond-grading laboratory worth considering.
Finally
In addition to the GIA, the American Gemological Society is a European grading organization. Both organizations have international presence, and they use standardized scales to grade diamonds. While GIA is the more reputable diamond-grading organization, the AGSL offers more stringent standards for cut quality. The American Gem Society also has offices in Israel, Belgium, India, and China.
